St. Mary’s School earns accreditation

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St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic School of Van Wert has once again received “full accreditation” from the Ohio Catholic School Accrediting Association. This announcement follows two years of intensive planning and self-evaluation.

An external evaluation team consisting of professional educators in Columbus and from surrounding schools also visited the school in March and critiqued plans written by the school staff. This accreditation period continues for a five-year period; the previous accreditation was awarded in 2006. Results from surveys of students, parents, staff and other stakeholders were combined with data acquired from state and national tests. Information collected led to the formation of both a “Catholic Identity Goal” and a “Student Performance Goal.” Strategies, resources, evaluative measures and timelines for meeting these goals were also established.

The Catholic identity goal is: “students will increase their understanding of Catholic Social Teaching in the area of life and dignity of the human person.” The Student performance goal is: “students will improve their measurement skills and demonstrate application of those skills across the curriculum.” In implementing these goals the use of Project Based Learning will be incorporated at all grade levels.

St. Mary’s is the only school in Van Wert County offering a curriculum that includes Bible and church teachings in all subjects grades K through 6. The school opened in 1959 as a mission of the local parish. Currently the Toledo Diocese Course of Study is being used — this parallels the course of study from the Ohio Department of Education. The school, while adhering to Catholic teaching, is open to children of all faith.

Tuition is reasonable and tuition assistance is available. St. Mary’s is a small, easy accessible school located on the southeast side of Van Wert — family involvement is encouraged and moral values are emphasized. Registrations are currently being accepted for students at all grade levels K through 6. Registration forms and additional information can be found online at www.vanwertstmarys.com or by contacting the school office at 419.238.5186. The school is located at 611 Jennings Road Van Wert. Personal tours are available on request.

Father Stan Szybka is pastor and superintendent and principal-minister is David Mathew.